Overly prominent or irregularly shaped ears can significantly impact
Trusted Source
Otoplasty for the protruded ear
Nazarian R, Eshraghi AA
Go to Source
self-esteem
and satisfaction with one’s appearance, often leading to discomfort or even taunting, especially among children. Dr. Samuel Sohn understands the delicate nature of this concern and offers ear surgery (otoplasty) to effectively address issues related to the size, shape, and angle of the ears. Catering to both younger and older patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, Florida, Dr. Sohn focuses his otoplasty approach to prioritize not only aesthetic improvement but also the emotional well-being of his patients. Known for his expertise as a plastic surgeon and compassionate care, Dr. Sohn is dedicated to helping individuals achieve outcomes that greatly enhance their appearance and boost their confidence.
Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty, or ear surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes and repositions the ears. The term “otoplasty” is used to refer to a number of surgical procedures performed to alter the appearance of the ears, including ear pinning for protruding ears, ear reduction for patients with very large ears (macrotia), and ear augmentation for patients with very small or underdeveloped ears (microtia).
What Can Cosmetic Ear Surgery Treat?
Otoplasty is performed to address a range of cosmetic concerns, including:
- Protruding ears (prominauris) or prominent ears
- Overly large ears (macrotia)
- Disproportionately small ears (microtia)
- Asymmetrical ears
- Ear abnormalities due to injury or congenital birth defects, including lop ear, cupped ear and “cauliflower ear”
- Damage caused by
Trusted Source
Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping)
Cleveland Clinic
Go to Source
ear piercings
Types of Otoplasty
There are various otoplasty techniques tailored to address specific concerns:
- Cartilage scoring: involves reshaping the ear cartilage by scoring and bending
- Cartilage sparing: modifies the ear shape without removing cartilage, suitable for minor adjustments
- Conchal setback: focuses on repositioning the inner part of the ear to reduce prominence
- Earlobe reduction: corrects the size and shape of the earlobe
Patient Gallery
Patient Gallery
View Our Patient Gallery
Who is a Candidate for Ear Pinning?
Otoplasty is performed on both children and adults who are dissatisfied with the shape, prominence, or size of their ears. A good candidate for cosmetic ear surgery:
- Is in good overall health
- Has fully developed
Trusted Source
Who is a good candidate for ear surgery?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Go to Source
ear cartilage
- Is old enough to communicate their feelings and cooperate during the recovery period
- Has realistic expectations about what can be achieved through cosmetic surgery
Preparing for Cosmetic Ear Surgery
A consultation with Dr. Sohn is the best way to feel well-prepared for otoplasty. During this appointment, Dr. Sohn will examine your or your child’s ears, conduct a medical history review, and discuss any cosmetic concerns you have. You will learn more about the otoplasty procedure, and a customized treatment plan will be developed. Once your procedure is scheduled, you will receive detailed pre-operative instructions as well as what can be expected during the otoplasty recovery period.
The Otoplasty Procedure
Otoplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure that typically takes between 1 and 2 hours. Each otoplasty surgery plan is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomical needs and aesthetic desires. Depending on the patient’s age and the extent of the procedure, either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation is used. The procedure usually involves making a small incision in the natural fold at the
Trusted Source
Otoplasty
Mayo Clinic
Go to Source
back of the ear
to adjust the cartilage using permanent sutures and possibly removing a small section of excess cartilage to alter the ear angle. The surgical technique and approach will be chosen to achieve the best possible outcome while ensuring a natural look.
Otoplasty Recovery and Results
Recovery experiences vary, with most patients able to return to their regular activities within a week. It’s essential for patients, especially children, to avoid activities that might risk injury to the ears or sutures during the healing period. A headband may be recommended to support and maintain the new ear position. The results of otoplasty are designed to be permanent, enhancing not only the physical appearance but also boosting confidence and self-esteem.
I’m extremely happy with my surgery outcome and it’s only been one day.
Dr. Sohn made me feel very comfortable and treated me with fantastic care. I’m extremely happy with my surgery outcome and it’s only been one day. Can’t wait to see how everything looks fully recovered. Thank you Dr. Sohn I will absolutely be recommending you to others!
Why Choose Samuel Sohn for Otoplasty?
Samuel Sohn, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Samuel Sohn understands the delicate nature of this concern and offers ear surgery (otoplasty) to effectively address issues related to the size, shape, and angle of the ears. Catering to both younger and older patients, Dr. Sohn focuses his otoplasty approach to prioritize not only aesthetic improvement but also the emotional well-being of his patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Otoplasty
The cost of otoplasty varies according to individual treatment plans. A detailed overview of the expected cost of ear surgery will be provided during your consultation. We will also be happy to discuss otoplasty financing and payment options with you.
There is no upper age limit for otoplasty. Dr. Sohn recommends that younger patients wait until their ear cartilage has fully developed, which usually occurs at around 5 or 6 years of age.
Incisions for cosmetic ear surgery are typically placed behind the ear or in the natural creases in front of the ear, so scars are rarely visible.
No. Otoplasty is performed only on the external ear, so there will be no changes in the patient’s ability to hear.
The best way to achieve favorable results from otoplasty or any cosmetic surgery is to work with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in delicate facial plastic surgery procedures. Risks and side effects associated with otoplasty are common to most surgical procedures and include:
- Asymmetrical results
- Overcorrection
- Anesthesia risks
- Changes in skin sensation
- Allergies to surgical materials or products used during ear surgery
- Bleeding
- Hematoma
-
Trusted Source
What are the risks of ear surgery?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Go to Source
Infection
- Recurrence of ear prominence
Schedule an Otoplasty Consultation
If you are considering otoplasty or have any questions about this ear reshaping procedure, we invite you to contact us for a consultation. Dr. Samuel M. Sohn is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care in plastic surgery, with a focus on personalized treatment for his patients in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg, Florida.
1 Nazarian R, Eshraghi AA. Otoplasty for the protruded ear. Semin Plast Surg. 2011 Nov;25(4):288-94. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1288921. PMID: 23115535; PMCID: PMC3312149. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23115535/. Accessed December 20, 2023.
2 Cleveland Clinic. Otoplasty (Ear Reshaping). Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11021-otoplasty-ear-reshaping. Accessed December 20, 2023.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for ear surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/ear-surgery/candidates. Accessed December 20, 2023.
4 Mayo Clinic. Otoplasty. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/otoplasty/about/pac-20394822. Accessed December 20, 2023.
5 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of ear surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/ear-surgery/safety. Accessed December 20, 2023.
Dr. Samuel Sohn has reviewed and approved this content.
Page Updated: